Biden Highlights Key Investment Project in Africa Visit

The Facts -

• Biden travels to Angola in December to counter China's influence in Africa.
• The Lobito Corridor project aims to access African minerals and boost trade.
• U.S. investments offer alternatives to China's often criticized investments.

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President Biden's Visit to Angola Highlights U.S. Strategy in Africa

President Joe Biden is set to visit Angola on Dec. 1, emphasizing renewed efforts to strengthen U.S.-Africa relations amid rising geopolitical tensions with China. The trip, originally planned for Oct. 13 but delayed by Hurricane Milton, aims to counter China's growing influence and introduce a sustainable U.S. policy in Africa.

According to a senior administration official, Biden's African strategy involves increased investments rather than traditional aid, marking a shift in U.S. policy. This strategic visit to Angola underscores its significance as a focal point for these efforts.

During his stay, Biden will highlight the Lobito Corridor project, crucial to U.S. economic and national security. The project, launched last year, aims to access Africa's critical mineral reserves and promote economic opportunities. It is seen as a counter to China's Belt and Road Initiative. The proposed 1,000-mile railway will link Angola’s port city of Lobito to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia’s Copperbelt, reducing mineral transport time from 45 days to 45 hours.

The administration claims this investment provides a high-standard alternative to Chinese projects often linked with "low standards, child labor, and corruption."

From Dec. 2 to Dec. 4, Biden will be in Luanda, marking the first visit by a U.S. president to Angola. The trip continues a tradition of bipartisan support for U.S.–Africa policies. Biden plans to address Africa’s infrastructure needs, promoting economic and technological cooperation. At the 2022 Africa Leaders’ Summit, the U.S. pledged to invest $55 billion in Africa, meeting 80% of that commitment so far.

Biden will meet Angolan President João Lourenço, who expressed hopes to diversify U.S. investments beyond oil and gas. Lourenço is optimistic the relationship won't be affected by the incoming Trump administration.

Africa's Critical Mineral Resources

Biden's Angola visit highlights Africa's regional importance, with vast natural resources poised to boost its global economic role. The continent holds about 30% of the world’s critical mineral reserves, key for electronics and defense technologies. The DRC, rich in cobalt, is vital for the global supply chain.

China dominates Africa's mining sector, with significant control over cobalt production. This gives China leverage in processing and refining minerals. However, the U.S., India, Saudi Arabia, and UAE are increasing their presence in the region.

Biden's administration aims to reduce Chinese influence and secure strategic minerals. Projects like the Lobito Corridor are expected to redirect resources to Western markets, challenging China's dominance.

The U.S.-funded project is supported by the African Development Bank and Trafigura. While China's Belt and Road Initiative has invested heavily in African infrastructure, critics argue it has led to a "debt trap," with 52 African countries in BRI agreements.

Biden described the Lobito project as transformative for regional commerce and food security at the G20 summit, highlighting its potential to reshape Africa's economic landscape.

From The Epoch Times

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